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Portland Riverfest Draws Attention to Willamette River by Offering Plenty of Free Fun

August 25th, 2008

Portland Riverfest is a new summer event focused on increasing awareness of the Willamette River: its history, recreational opportunities, economic activity, and environmental health. Riverfest runs from August 25 through September 7, and organizers have planned a variety of activities, many of which are free. Here’s a sample of what’s to come:

• Parade of Willamette Species: Right now, you can register to participate in the Parade of Willamette Species, which takes place on August 30. To prepare for the parade, create a river species-inspired costume on your own or get help at the free puppet-making workshop on August 25 or the mask-making workshop on August 27. If marching is not your thing, come out on August 30 to see and cheer on what will surely be a creative menagerie. For more information, click here.

• Symphony Concert: Come down to Tom McCall Waterfront Park on August 28 to watch performances by the Portland Youth Philharmonic and the Oregon Symphony. Be sure to stay until the end for a performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with cannons and fireworks. For more information, click here.

• South Waterfront Day: On September 6, enjoy an afternoon of live music, ballet, theatre, art, kid-centric activities, dog-centric activities, a sailing regatta, walking tours, free bike tune-ups and more in the South Waterfront neighborhood. Participants include Bobby Torres, Devin Phillips Funk Band, Portland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Oregon Ballet Theatre, Sojourn Theatre, Audubon Society of Portland, and many more. For more information, click here.

And there are many more events: a boat parade, dragon boat races, walking tours, paddle tours, a community fair, educational opportunities, a SOLV river clean-up …. Check the Riverfest website for all the details.

Photo by StuSeeger

Entry Filed under: Art,Children,Discount,Education,Entertainment,Environment,Events,Food,Free,Frugal living,Kids,Music,Portland,Theater